Phoebe MahayagPhoebe writes about horse care, health, and behavior for Equestrian Space, blending hands-on stable experience with up-to-date veterinary guidance.
Phoebe Mahayag 
IntroductionHorses are more than magnificent animals—they are keen observers, master communicators, and honest mirrors of human behavior. Working with horses provides unique lessons in leadership and trust that go beyond traditional training methods. Because they are prey animals, horses are acutely sensitive to body language, energy, and intention. They respond not to titles or commands, … Read more
Can music calm horses? Learn what research suggests, how to choose quiet sound, and how to test auditory enrichment safely in a stable.
IntroductionThe health and performance of a horse rely heavily on what’s happening inside its digestive system. The gut microbiome — the diverse community of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and other microorganisms living in the digestive tract — plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and even behavior. Understanding this microscopic ecosystem can help … Read more
IntroductionEquestrian fitness is about more than just staying in shape—it’s about building the strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance needed to communicate effectively with your horse and ride with precision. A well-conditioned rider can maintain correct posture, give clearer aids, and adapt to their horse’s movements with ease. Just like athletes in any sport, equestrians benefit … Read more
Is horse racing ethical? Examine the welfare standards that matter, from fit-to-compete decisions and humane training to injury management, aftercare, and responsible breeding.
IntroductionUnderstanding how horses see the world is essential for building trust, improving training, and ensuring the safety of both horse and rider. A horse’s vision is uniquely adapted for survival, shaped by their evolution as prey animals. By learning how equine eyes work, owners and handlers can communicate more effectively, anticipate reactions, and create environments … Read more
IntroductionUnderstanding equine body language is an essential skill for anyone working with horses. These intelligent, sensitive animals communicate primarily through posture, movement, and subtle cues. Interpreting these signals can reveal valuable insights into a horse’s comfort, focus, stress level, and intent. However, a horse’s behavior can vary significantly depending on the environment—what a horse communicates … Read more
Learn how a horse takes off, clears an obstacle, and lands: a practical 2026 guide to equine jumping biomechanics, footing, training, and injury prevention.
A compassionate, practical guide to grieving after a horse dies, including coping ideas, barn routines, support, and when to seek professional help.
Learn how horses sleep standing up and lying down, why REM sleep matters, how much rest they need, and which stable or health problems can disrupt equine sleep.
Barefoot and shod horses can both thrive. Learn how workload, footing, hoof quality, veterinary needs, and farrier care should guide the decision in 2026.
Can horses remember people and places? Learn what equine memory research shows about human recognition, learned associations, spatial memory, and safe training.
